System and method for cutting-stock optimization across schedules and batches

ABSTRACT

A method and system for optimizing cutting of various materials. In some embodiments, an algorithm optimizes cutting by grouping items to be cut, wherein a plurality of cutting-stock pieces are grouped together and aligned such that a single cut simultaneously cuts items from all of the pieces. Some embodiments optimize a combination of reduced labor cost, reduced materials cost (e.g., reducing scrap), and/or reduced time needed to obtain an inventory of pieces cut to specified lengths and shapes (checking the various permutations). Overall optimization of labor and material is achieved by a combination of fewer cuts and reduced waste. Some embodiments include a computer-readable medium having instructions executed by a computer that optimizes placement of cuts to obtain cut-part items, and optionally controls a saw, laser, water-jet cutter or the like. In some embodiments, a human operator making the cuts is instructed by the computer to achieve the optimization.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/801,885, filed May 18, 2006 and titled: “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CUTTING-STOCK OPTIMIZATION,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/890,470, filed Feb. 16, 2007 and titled: “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CUTTING-STOCK OPTIMIZATION ACROSS SCHEDULES AND BATCHES” which are both incorporated herein by reference in their entirety including appendices.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

This patent document contains copyrightable computer software elements including but not limited to source code, flow charts and screen displays. The following notice shall apply to these elements: Copyright©2006-2007 Geoffrey J. Roise. A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to the field of manufacturing systems and methods, and more particularly to software and systems employing software to optimize the cutting of various stock materials including, for example, the one- and two-dimensional cutting of woods, plastics, metals and related materials, wherein optimization is performed of parts to be cut relative to stock material from which the parts are cut.

Source-Code Appendices

An Appendix containing source-code files that make up one embodiment of the present invention are attached at the end of this application. These source-code files in Appendix A (labeled as “Code Appendix”) are incorporated by reference in their entirety into this application.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cutting-stock-optimization algorithms are known in the art. Some of the better-known algorithms are those by P. Y. Wang addressing constrained one- and two-dimensional cutting-stock problems. While these algorithms tend to describe certain steps to optimize based upon certain combinatoric solutions, these solution are based primarily upon spatial considerations relating to the most optimal way to use the starting materials (e.g., a stock sheet). What is needed is an implementation of a cutting-stock algorithm that optimizes based upon not only spatial considerations and efficiencies, but also based upon scheduling, batching and labor considerations and efficiencies.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a method and system of optimizing the cutting of various materials, wherein optimizations include those within a batch as well as those that spill across batches and even schedules of different work shifts and different days' work. In such an environment, there is a cost incurred in cutting too much stock before it is going to be assembled into a product (due to work-in-progress storage space and tracking costs), as well as a cost in the labor of operating the cutting machine, and a cost of wasted material in scraps that are too short to use in a product.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides an optimized cutting-stock algorithm is implemented that optimizes based upon one or more variables including the grouping or combining of various stocks, that is, materials to be cut. In some embodiments, a cutting-stock algorithm of the present invention optimizes based upon certain permutations (e.g., the variables of labor cost and/or materials cost viewed in light of scheduling and batching considerations). Optimization in either variable (i.e., labor or materials), or the combination of the two, is in terms of lowering the number of cuts that must be made, and/or the amount of wasted materials. In short, optimization can be via labor saving or material saving across cutting schedules and/or batches of materials to be cut. In some embodiments, these algorithms are implemented in a computer-readable medium that is executed by a suitably programmed computer, which, in turn, controls a saw, laser, water-jet cutter or some other cutting device. In some embodiments, a human operator is instructed by the suitably programmed computer as to when to make a cut.

In some embodiments, the present invention essentially provides optimization using groups of batches to provide optimizations across bigger batches (since when optimizing the planned cutting using a larger number of pieces, there is a better opportunity to reduce scrap and labor) while keeping the size of each job presented to an operator reasonably small. In some embodiments, this is accomplished by doing multiple levels of look-ahead to one or more future batches (i.e., the primary batch that will be cut next plus one or more subsequent batches) that possibly could be combined, at least partially, into the present (primary) batch for a better fit and optimization.

In some embodiments, a number of variables (such as the availability and timing of raw materials (how much, at what cost, and when), the incoming orders (which individually or in combination with other orders form the batch orders of cuts to be made), and the availability and cost of labor (including skill levels needed, whether overtime would be required, and like considerations), and other variables) are presented to a user of the present invention. As used herein, the term “order” means a specification for one or more parts to be cut from stock material. Stock material is the starting linear material (such as wood or plastic) from which lengths are cut to form the cut parts having specified angles of cut at each end (and optionally other machining done, such as holes drilled and the like), or starting sheet material from which panels (or the like) having specified shapes are cut or stamped. The user applies these variables defining the cut parts as specified parameters that control a computer program that examines the batch orders, and using one or more levels of look-ahead (i.e., the number of batches over which optimization is performed) (and optionally using further guidance and input from the operator), generates layout specifications and commands for the cutting machine(s) and each machine's operator(s). This look-ahead process uses revolving or rolling optimization groupings of orders, such that when planning a first batch layout (the placement of cut-part specifications onto stock (or “raw”) materials to be cut), the optimization will look to possible combinations with a second, and possibly a third, or further-future batch, and possibly delay portions of the present batch or re-order future batches to be cut earlier, to optimize within given constraints of raw material availability and cost, the availability of storage space to store pieces of future batches until they can be assembled, the availability of skilled operators, and numerous other constraints. Once all the pieces for that first batch have been cut to specification, that batch is removed from the optimization process, and an additional future batch is added to those being considered in the optimization.

A user may choose the extent of optimization to balance between material yield, cost or raw materials and labor, and/or amount of work-in-progress inventory waiting for assembly and like choices. The optimizer then receives the list of batches and the list of raw material, and outputs a saw layout specification for each successive time period.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a flowchart describing an algorithm 100.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart describing an algorithm 200.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart describing an algorithm 300.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart describing an algorithm 400.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart describing an algorithm 500.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart describing an algorithm 600.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of one embodiment of an information processor 700.

FIG. 8 is a schematic 800 of a single batch optimization.

FIG. 9 is a schematic 900 showing various component pieces that make up the optimized batch 812.

FIG. 10 is a schematic 1000 of an implementation of an algorithm for optimizing across multiple batches.

FIG. 11 is a schematic 1100 of an implementation of combining of batch #1 1011 and batch #4 1014 and the materials component 1001 contained therein.

FIG. 12 is a schematic 1200 of an implementation of an algorithm for optimizing an individual batch on a rolling basis.

FIG. 13 is a schematic 1300 of an implementation of the processing of a split in batch 1301.

FIG. 14 is a schematic 1400 of an implementation of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a schematic 1500 of another implementation of the invention.

FIG. 16 is a schematic 1600 of yet another implementation of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The leading digit(s) of reference numbers appearing in the Figures generally corresponds to the Figure number in which that component is first introduced, such that the same reference number is used throughout to refer to an identical component that appears in multiple Figures. Signals and connections may be referred to by the same reference number or label, and the actual meaning will be clear from its use in the context of the description.

An Overview of Various Batching Algorithms

There have been varieties of different approaches to the problem of optimizing the one- and two-dimensional cutting of materials such as metals, wood, vinyls, synthetic boards, paper, glass, fabric, plastic or rubber materials. U.S. Pat. No. 6,690,990 (“Caron et al.”), which is incorporated by reference, discloses optimization within the context of cutting based upon certain reference axes, such as an orthogonal reference axis. Other cutting algorithms have optimized based upon certain input variables, such a minimum salvage length, or a minimum defect length, to name a few. U.S. Pat. No. 6,941,864 (“Dick et al.”), which is incorporated by reference, is an example of one such algorithm. These exemplary cutting-stock solutions fail to address the combinatoric- or permutation-based solutions to cutting-stock optimization, especially those solutions that attempt to use labor or scrap costs as a basis for optimization.

In some embodiments, a cutting-stock-optimization algorithm is described that could be used in the context of either the one- or two-dimensional cutting of materials. In some embodiments, a saw, laser, or water-jet cutter or other suitable device is used to cut these materials. In some embodiments, the saw is, for example, a computer numerical control (“CNC”) saw, 90 degree saw, 45 degree-45 degree saw (i.e., a miter saw), a 45 degree-90 degree saw, a table saw, rip saw, upcut saw, circular saw, cabinet saw, radial-arm saw, rotary saw, miter saw (electric or otherwise) or other suitable saw. In some embodiments, a CNC punch is used to cut these materials. In some embodiments, certain materials are grouped together or combined based upon, for example, a cut list. In some embodiments, these groupings are ordered such that certain groupings are cut prior to other groupings. In some embodiments, the manner in which certain materials are grouped and the priority in which they are cut is based upon what type of optimization is being sought.

In some embodiments, the cutting-stock-optimization algorithm is used to cut long linear materials (“cutting stock” such as shaped wood, vinyl or aluminum that are cut to form smaller pieces of a specific length, width, and ending angle(s) or miter(s)) to be used in the manufacture of parts used to make windows and doors, parts such as sashes (framing that holds panes of glass of a window), stiles (vertical side members of the window), lintels (horizontal beam at the top of a window or door), transoms (horizontal beams that divide a window), and other components that make up a door or window. In some embodiments, a single layer of parts is cut from a single piece of stock material. Items that can be built include picture frames or other items made from cut pieces of a linear starting or stock material (wherein each cut part is defined by cut(s) at one or both ends of the cut part, however additional operations such as drilling and/or tapping holes or other machining or manufacturing operations may optionally also be done), manufactured items made from sheet material, wherein the cuts may involve more than just two ends, such as cutting the entire perimeter of the cut part item (however additional machining or manufacturing operations such as folding, welding, and the like may optionally also be done) such as an electronic chassis made from stamped metal parts cut from sheet stock material (such as sheet metal unwound from a roll), or any other suitable manufacturing items that are cut or stamped from stock material. As used herein, the term “cut” means any operation such as sawing with a saw blade or water jet, cutting with a plasma torch or high-power laser, shearing, stamping, or like operations that separate and/or shape the cut parts from a stock material. As used herein, stock or raw material means any source material from which the cut parts are cut. Linear stock material means stock material having any desired cross-sectional shape that is cut according to a length specification (and optionally these cuts are also according to other specifications such as, for example, the angle of the end cut), and which parts to be cut are laid out end-to-end along a longest dimension of the linear stock material. In general, the optimization for parts cut from linear stock material is done by fitting the lengths of the various parts to the lengths of the pieces of linear stock material. Sheet stock material means stock material having any desired cross-sectional shape that is cut according to a perimeter specification of the to-be-cut parts (and optionally these cuts are also according to other specifications such as, for example, the angles or shapes of the cuts, or dead-end cuts that only extend part way across the sheet), and which parts to be cut are laid out both end-to-end along a length dimension of the sheet stock material and/or laid out side-by-side along a width dimension of the sheet stock material. If the sheet stock material is flat and uniform, the sheet cut parts may be rotated during the fitting in order to fit more parts on a sheet of stock material and thus get greater yield. Some of these window-, and window-and-sash combinations include, for example, double-hung sash windows, single-hung sash windows, horizontal sliding sash windows, casement windows, tilt-and-slide windows, tilt-and-turn windows, jalousie windows, clerestory windows, skylights, bay windows, oriel windows, fixed windows, divided-light windows, or other combinations and window types.

In some embodiments, other materials or shapes can be cut to form smaller pieces of a specific length, width, and ending angle(s) or miter(s). For example, one or more steel pipes can be grouped such that the cuts, used to obtain pieces of predetermined lengths for particular uses, are optimized. Similarly, a predetermined amount of aluminum (e.g., trim or other suitable pieces) can be optimized and cut to a predetermined length. Further, in some embodiments, one or more sashes can be optimized and cut to a predetermined length. In yet still other embodiment, one or more pieces of wood used to make up the height or width portion of a window frame can be optimized and cut.

In some embodiments, optimization is based upon minimizing the labor costs associated with cutting, whereas, in other embodiments, optimization is based upon minimizing the amount of waste materials produced as a byproduct of cutting. In some embodiments, optimization is based upon a comparison, or weighing of these two factors to determine which, relatively speaking, has the greater cost in terms of, for example, money. In some embodiments, labor costs can be lessened through reducing the number of cuts that an operator of a cutting device (e.g., a saw) must make. In some embodiments, waste materials can be reduced by, for example, keeping an inventory of available materials to be cut such that new cutting-stock materials need not be used. Materials taken from this inventory of materials can then be combined or grouped with other materials, and cut with a single cut, thus minimizing labor and materials costs.

In some embodiments, this combining or grouping takes the form of combining or grouping materials scheduled to be cut at different times, or materials form separate batches of similar materials. In some embodiments, by selecting materials from a larger universe of materials than would otherwise be used, efficiencies can be increased in the form of few cuts required, and thus less labor costs. In short, in such an embodiment, economies of scale are used to generate greater efficiencies in the cutting of materials.

In some embodiments, an object oriented or structured programming language such as C++, Java™, Fox Pro™, C, .NET, or Delphi™ (or the like) is used to implement an algorithm to optimize cutting across a schedule or a batch. In some embodiments, an algorithm is implemented that optimizes by considering the entire cutting schedule for a predetermined time period, and looking for the same or similar size cuts within this schedule. Additionally, in some embodiments, an algorithm is implemented that seeks to optimize across a predetermined number of batches, whereby the same or similar cut sizes are looked for across these predetermined number of batches. Moreover, in some embodiments, an algorithm is implemented that seeks to optimize by looking for the same or similar size cuts within a batch. The actual implementation details of these algorithms will be contingent upon the needs or desires of the particular developer implementing these algorithms. For example, in some embodiments, these algorithms will be implemented together using case statements (see below) or branch statements. In some embodiments, these algorithms will implement iterative loops or recursive functions to repeat certain steps in a particular algorithm.

Maxcuts Optimizer

In some embodiments, the present invention provides an apparatus and method (sometimes called the MAXCUTS OPTIMIZER) for continuous-flow optimization using a computer-implemented program called maxcuts. A main setting is “MaxLook” which tells the optimizer how to look at the data and how to treat it using various settings. In each scenario, it is assumed that there are pieces of material in various “batches” that need to be cut in a day, week, etc. Batch A would be items that are needed first, Batch B second, C third, etc. Table 1 is an example of items that are in different batches (often with other items and quantities).

TABLE 1 Batch A Batch B Batch C Batch D Qty Size Qty Size Qty Size Qty Size 2 15.88 2 15.88 1 15.88 1 15.88 2 21.24 1 21.24 4 21.24 1 21.24 1 28.00 2 48.88 1 27.88 1 18.88 2 35.55 1 40.00 1 42.00 1 27.00 2 39.00 2 27.00 2 48.00 2 39.00 . . . and so on . . . and so on . . . and so on . . . and so on

When the operator is cutting “Batch A”, “Batch A” is the primary batch. When the operator is cutting Batch C, Batch C becomes the primary batch. This is an example of one part but oftentimes there are many parts in each batch. Each can have its own rules and properties. Regardless of the setting for maxlook, it is important to define the following terms in Table 2:

TABLE 2 Term Description Primary The batch the saw operator is cutting at the current time. Batch Optional Batches that can be cut with the primary batch if certain rules Batches fail for the primary batch. Load Every time an operator places raw material on the saw for cutting counts as a load. A load can contain 1 piece of raw material, 2 pieces, 3, pieces, 4 pieces, etc. Cycle Every time the saw cuts. If the saw is cutting 8 pieces at a time, it counts as one cycle. Yield Some optimizers measure yield differently than others. We measure yield as the following: $\frac{\left( {{Total}\mspace{14mu}{Length}\mspace{14mu}{of}\mspace{14mu}{cut}\mspace{14mu}{pieces}} \right)}{\left( {{Total}\mspace{14mu}{length}\mspace{14mu}{of}\mspace{14mu}{raw}\mspace{14mu}{material}\mspace{14mu}{need}\mspace{14mu}{to}\mspace{14mu}{cut}\mspace{14mu}{required}\mspace{14mu}{pieces}} \right)}$ When using the Maxcuts optimizer, there are several variables used to help achieve the result the user is looking for. Some of the variables are used in several “MaxLook” settings while others are used only once. In some embodiments, “yield” is defined as (total length of cut pieces) divided by (total length of raw (stock) material need to cut required pieces).

TABLE 3 Variable Description MaxLookBatch Indicates how many batches the optimizer can look ahead for parts when cutting the primary batch. If The maxlook setting is set to “2”, the optimizer will look ahead 2 batches for additional parts to cut while cutting the primary batch. MaxLookcutoff_type The main reason for maxlookcutoff_type and maxlookcutoff is to determine which loads do not pass certain conditions (using these variables). If there are loads that do not pass, the optimizer will take the pieces that are supposed to be cut in these loads and look for pieces in other batches (as defined by maxlookbatch) to gain a better optimization. What type of calculation is used on the remaining scrap material. Various settings can be used including labor, etc. but here are the most common ones: “Length” (amount of scrap regardless of how many pieces are cut at a time) “Total Length” (amount of scrap multiplied by the number of pieces being cut) Yield Maxlookcutoff The value associated with the maxlookcutoff_type. MaxMatch When looking for identical parts in other batches, if and how to match them up. The following settings indicate how it will be used: 1: Only match within a batch 2: Match across the entire schedule 3: Match across a specific number of batches (indicated in MaxMatch Batch) 4: Don't Match MaxMatchBatch If MaxMatch is set to 3, this tells the software to also use the parameter that specifies how many batches it can look ahead for a match. MatchPlane For those that specify a plane (i.e., “W” for width, “H” for height, etc.), only match if the setting in the plane column is the same. In some embodiments, the MatchPlane parameter is used to specify other user-specified characteristics other than or in addition to width and height, such as color of the stock material needed, or any other parameter. Max_parts The number of parts that can be cut at one time on a saw. If the saw can cut 4 parts at a time, the optimizer will look to match parts up to 4. Min_parts The minimum number of parts that can be cut at one time. In most cases this will be 1. Item_saw_offset The amount to add or subtract to each cut. This is used in situations where the cut amount may be a finish size (i.e., after weld or processing) yet the actual amount to cut on the saw is +/− a specific amount. MaxSplit MaxSplit indicates if and how to split quantities into smaller quantities. MaxSplit will take quantities of 4 and make them 2's, 2's and make them 1's, etc. MaxSplit has the following settings: 1: Don't Split 2: Split based on maxsplit_type and maxsplitmin_cutoff Maxsplit_type Same explanation as Maxlookcutoff_type. Maxsplit_mincutoff Same explanation as maxlookcutoff. Useleftover Indicates on whether or not to use the leftover pieces from previous optimizations (no matter the cost). Leftoveradj If a leftover piece needs to have an amount added to it or subtracted from it (i.e., additional trim piece or no trim needed), it can be indicated here. Group_type In some rare cases, you will end up with identical loads at quantities less than the saw is capable of cutting. For example, you may have 2 identical loads at a quantity of 2 but the saw is capable of cutting four-at-a-time. In other cases you may want to optimize a part one- at-a-time but can cut those four-at-a-time. In this case, if the loads are identical, you may as well cut those 4 at a time. Both situations can be indicated through these settings: 0: Group up to the max_cuts setting 1: Group up to a specific setting as indicated by group_parts 2: Don't group Group_parts The number of parts to group up until if the group_type setting is set to 1. Scrap_end Amount of scrap the saw requires to be at the end of a stock piece. Also known as trailing scrap. Scrap_middle Amount of scrap required between two cuts. Scrap_lead Amount of scrap the saw requires at the start of a piece. Also known as trim cut. Scrap_reusesize Indicates a point at which to save the remaining pieces for later. If this is set to 50 inches and there is 60 inches left at the end of a load, the optimizer will indicate that this piece should be saved.

Setting Descriptions for Maxcuts Continuous-Flow Optimization

Table 4 shows MaxLook (by item) (MaxLook). MaxLook helps define the population of data the optimizer looks at. It can look at the entire schedule (the entire population of data) or ways to do the individual batch.

TABLE 4 MaxLook Setting Description What it does 0 Use Saw Default The following variables are used off of the saw table: Maxlook Maxlookbatch Maxlookcutoff 1 Entire Schedule Optimizes the entire schedule and then, based on the setting in MaxLookSched, decides on where to cut the material. 2 Individual Batches down to 1. Performs MaxMatch Minimum Cuts 2. Optimizes in batch use MaxLookBatch for knowing 3. Verifies how far to look ahead in batches 4. Splits in Batch use MaxLookCutoff_type and 5. Perform steps 2-4 until MaxLookCutoff to determine  down to minimum cuts which ones don't make it 6. At the Minimum cuts most popular option for straight  level, optimizes across cuts  the entire schedule 3 Individual Batches across Batches 1. Perform MaxMatch use same options as in number 2 2. Optimize Batch at this is the most popular option  MaxCut Setting for frame/sash 3. Verify 4. Optimize Batch across  Batches 5. Split in batches 6. Perform steps 2-5 until  down to minimum cuts 4 Group number of batches together based on Maxlookbatch) with this option you don't look ahead when a layout fails 5 Individual Batch Only (do not If this is set, MaxMatch optimize across batches) should be set to only match 6 Rolling Batch within a batch. 7 Individual batches at max cuts setting, then across all batches

In some embodiments, the value for maxlookcutoff should be less than the value for min_cutoff (used for splitting)

TABLE 5 MaxMatch MaxMatch Setting Description What it does 0 Use Saw Default 1 Match only within a batch Only looks for same size cuts within the batch 2 Match across the entire schedule Considers the entire (priority given with a batch) schedule when matching 3 Match across batches but limited Will look to match across to setting in MaxMatchBatch the number of batches the user indicates 4 Do not match

Match_Plane: Allow matching widths and heights or other user-specified data (default yes). In some embodiments, this is not used.

Sawmax_defaults: Use defaults on the saw for max and min parts settings

Max_parts: Maximum Number of Pieces to cut at one time

Min_parts: Minimum Number of Pieces to cut at one time

TABLE 6 MaxSplit (MaxSplit) (Indicates when to turn cutting 4-at-a-time into cutting 2-at-a-time, etc.) MaxSplit Setting Description 0 Use Saw Default 1 Do not Split 2 Base the split on: maxSplit_type: based on total scrap, length maxsplitMin_cutoff: setting

useleftover: Recycle leftover pieces

leftoveradj: End trim adjustment value (used for when a piece is leftover . . . this calculates how much to subtract to make it usable again) (leftoveradj). This allows the user to add back a length corresponding to the trim cut that might otherwise be done, or to subtract a length for damaged portions.

TABLE 7 Group_Type (matching identical layouts up to a specific setting),. If two layouts are exactly the same and would be cut at one-at-a-time, MaxGroup will instead cut them two-at-a-time. Group_type Setting Description 0 Group up to the MaxCuts Setting 1 MaxGroup to this setting: Group parts: Setting to group up to (should be greater than maxcuts) 2 Don't use MaxGroup

Sawscrap Defaults

If the sawscrap_defaults is set to true, the following are used off of the saw defaults:

Scrap_lead

Scrap_middle

Scrap_end

This field is used in some embodiments to provide default lengths for saw table information (such as a lead scrap length of 0.25 cm, middle scrap length of 3 cm, and an end scrap length of 1 cm).

Maxcuts Field Data

TABLE 8A Saw_id_report Table Layout # Name Type Length Description 1 Saw_rep_code Character 8 Unique identifier for saw 2 saw_rep_desc Character 20 Description for saw 3 station_type Character 10 Type of station (all are saw) 4 station_line Character 10 Manufacturing line the saw is on. 5 releasewithline Logical 1 Internal use 6 saw_rep_optimize Logical 1 If trueoptimize the parts that are assigned to the saw 7 saw_file Character 8 Output file information 8 export_loc Logical 1 Output file information 9 icart_bins Integer 4 Continuous flow optimization setting 10 ithreshold Integer 4 Continuous flow optimization setting 11 saw_export Character 10 Output file information 12 scrap_lead Numeric 6.3 Default for lead scrap 13 scrap_middle Numeric 6.3 Default for middle scrap 14 scrap_end Numeric 6.3 Default for end scrap 15 Item_saw_offset Numeric 6.3 Default for item_saw_offset 16 Maxlook Numeric 2 Default for maxlook setting 17 Maxlooksched Numeric 2 Default for maxlooksched 18 Maxlookbatch Numeric 2 Default for maxlookbatch 19 Maxlookcutoff Numeric 3 Default for maxlookcutoff 20 Maxlookcutoff_type Numeric 2 Default for maxlookcutoff_type 21 Maxmatch Numeric 2 Default for maxmatch 22 Maxmatchbatch Numeric 2 Default for maxmatchbatch 23 max_parts Numeric 2 Default for maximum number of pieces the saw can cut at once 24 min_parts Numeric 2 Default for minimum number of pieces the saw can cut at once 25 Match_plane Logical 1 Default for match_plane 26 split_type Character 25 Split typecan be scrap lengthtotal scrap lengthtotal scrap valuelaboretc. 27 min_cutoff Numeric 3 Decision criteria for split type 28 Group_type Numeric 2 Default for group_type 29 Group_parts Numeric 2 Default for group_parts 30 Useleftover Logical 1 Default for useleftover 31 Leftoveradj Numeric 6.3 Default for leftoveradj 32 itemlength Numeric 7.3 Default item length 33 repprocess_output Character 15 Output file information 34 reppicklist_output Character 15 Output file information 35 repcutlist_output Character 15 Output file information

TABLE 9A Vlop_itm_saw table layout # Name Type Length Description 1 saw_rep_code Character 8 Identifier for saw 2 item Character 15 Item 3 sawssrap_defaults Logical 1 If true, use the defaults found in saw_id_report 4 scrap_lead Numeric 6.3 Lead scrap 5 scrap_middle Numeric 6.3 Middle scrap 6 scrap_end Numeric 6.3 End scrap 7 item_saw_offset Numeric 7.3 + or − to add to each piece 8 Maxlook_defaults Logical 1 If true, use the defaults found in saw_id_report 9 Maxlook Numeric 2 Setting for maxlook setting 10 Maxlooksched Numeric 2 Setting for maxlooksched 11 Maxlookbatch Numeric 2 Setting for maxlookbatch 12 Maxlookcutoff_type Numeric 2 Setting for maxlookcutoff_type 13 Maxlookcutoff Numeric 3 Setting for maxlookcutoff 14 Maxmatch_defaults Logical 1 If true, use the defaults found in saw_id_report 15 Maxmatch Numeric 2 Setting for maxmatch 16 Maxmatchbatch Numeric 2 Setting for maxmatchbatch 17 sawmax_defaults Logical 1 Use defaults on saw for max, min parts 18 max_parts Numeric 2 Maximum number of item that can be cut at one time 19 min_parts Numeric 2 Minimum number of item that can be cut at one time 20 maxsplit_defaults Logical 1 If true, use saw split defaults 21 Maxsplit Numeric 2 22 split_type Character 25 Split type (same as on saw_id_report) 23 min _cutoff Numeric 3 Decision criteria for split type 24 Group_type Numeric 2 Setting for group_type 25 Group_parts Numeric 2 Setting for group_parts 26 Useleftover Logical 1 Setting for useleftover 27 Leftoveradj Numeric 6.3 Setting for leftoveradj

TABLE 10 Vlop_itm_stocks Table # Name Type Length Description 1 saw_rep_code Character 8 0 Identifier for saw, if blank this stock can be used at all saws 2 item Character 15 0 Item 3 Itemqty Integer 4 Quantity of item in this length, if −1 there is an unlimited quantity available 4 Itemlength Numeric 7.3 3 Length of item 5 Itemcost Numberic 7.3 3 Cost of item (optional)

TABLE 10B Sawfile_cur Cursor Layout order_no C(20) line_num C(1) type_code C(15) item_no C(15) orig_cut_qty N(4) cut_qty N(4) plane C(1) cut_size N(8,3) lite_cd C(1) re_lite_cd C(1) box_no N(3) saw_rep_code C(8) box_memo M box_short C(30) saw_model C(20) material_name C(20) notes1_memo M notes1_short C(20) notes2_memo M notes2_short C(20) CRC N(1) add_steps N(1) steps C(40) sort_ord N(4) layout_num N(4) layoutcut_ord I layout_length N(8,4) layout_left N(8,4) uniqueid I uniqueid_memo M

TABLE 10C remain_stocks_cur Cursor Layout ibatch_id I saw_rep_code C(8) ITEM C(15) layout_num I cut_qty I cut_layout N(8,3) layout_length N(8,3) layout_left_qty I layout_left N(8,3) layout_note C(20) saw_cuts I Layout Summary Cursor schedid I ibatch_sort I ibatch id I item_no Character (length dependent on calling program) layout_num I cut_qty I cut_layout N(9,3) layoutstocktype I layoutleftbatchid I layout length N(9,3) layout_left_qty I layout_left N(9,3) layout_note C(20) saveqty I laterqty I throwqty I saw_cuts I Cutsfille_cur Cursor ibatch_id I ibatch_sort I item_no Character (length dependent on calling program) orig_cut_qty N(4) cut_qty N(4) plane C(10) cut_size N(9,3) box memo M box_short C(50) notes1_memo M notes1_short C(50) notes2 memo M notes2_short C(50) ibatch_sort_cut I sort_ord N(4) layout_num N(4) layoutcut_ord I layout_length N(8,3) layout_left N(8,3) uniqueid I uniqueid_memo Memo

In some embodiments, the overall algorithm is controlled by the maxlook setting, wherein if the maxlook setting is 1, then the functions of FIG. 1 are executed; if the maxlook setting is 2, then the functions of FIG. 2 are executed; if the maxlook setting is 3, then the functions of FIG. 3 are executed; if the maxlook setting is 4, then the functions of FIG. 4 are executed; if the maxlook setting is 5, then the functions of FIG. 5 are executed; and if the maxlook setting is 6, then the functions of FIG. 6 are executed.

Algorithm for Optimizing by Entire Schedule

FIG. 1 is a flowchart describing an algorithm 100 used in some embodiments for optimizing an individual batch down to minimum cuts based upon an entire schedule (i.e., where the maxlook variable has been entered as one (1)). In some embodiments, the algorithm includes functions of setting 101 the maximum number of parts (max parts) to the max_parts variable; matching 102 the items up to the current max parts setting according to MaxMatch; optimizing 103 the items across the schedule for quantities equal to the current max parts setting; evaluating 104 the loads according to the maxsplit variables and for loads that fail the evaluation, deleting those loads and splitting the parts from those loads to a lower quantities value; changing 105 the max parts setting to the next lowest setting; determining 106 whether maxparts setting is less than one (1) and if not, branching back to function 102, and if so continuing to function 107; performing 107 the maxgroup function; sorting 108 items according to batch; and completing 109 optimization. Further regarding the evaluation and splitting, for example, if at a cut quantity of four parts cut per saw cycle, the scrap might be 50 cm but the acceptable value is 30 cm, then that load would be split into quantities of two parts cut per saw cycle (or reverted back to their original cut quantity and rematched again) and those smaller quantities of parts would then be optimized in a later iteration of the method.

Algorithm for Optimizing by Max Cuts in Batch

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm 200 for optimizing within each batch first and then performing the necessary splitting within the batch, and, when the optimizer is at the minimum cuts setting, looking across the batches for additional parts (i.e., where the maxlook variable has been entered as two (2)). In some embodiments, the algorithm includes functions of starting 201 with the first batch; setting 202 the max parts to the max_parts variable; matching 203 the items up to the current max parts setting according to MaxMatch; optimizing 204 the items within the batch (including items that were matched according to MaxMatch) for quantities equal to the current max parts setting; unless the max parts setting is equal to or less than the min parts setting, evaluating 205 the loads according to the maxsplit variables, and for loads that fail, deleting them and splitting the quantities; changing 206 the max parts setting to the next lowest setting; determining 207 whether Maxparts setting is less than or equal to min_parts setting and if not, branching back to function 203, and if so continuing to function 208; determining 208 whether done optimizing all batches and if not, moving on to next batch and starting that next batch at function 202, and if so continuing to function 209; for parts at the min parts setting, evaluating 209 the loads according to the maxlook variables, and for loads that fail, optimizing them across the schedule; performing 210 MaxGroup; sorting 211 items according to Batch; and completing 212 optimization.

Algorithm for Optimizing by Max Cuts Across Batches

FIG. 3 is a flowchart describing an algorithm 300 for optimizing within each batch first at the highest maxcuts setting and then looking for parts in other defined batches, and, when the optimizer is at the minimum cuts setting, looking across the batches for additional parts (i.e., where the maxlook variable has been entered as three (3)). In some embodiments, the algorithm includes functions of starting 301 with the first batch; setting 302 the max parts to the max_parts variable; matching 303 the items up to the current max parts setting according to MaxMatch; optimizing 304 the items within the batch (including items that were matched according to MaxMatch) for quantities equal to the current max parts setting; unless the max parts setting is equal to or less than the min parts setting, evaluating 305 the loads according to the maxlook variables, and for loads that fail, deleting them; optimizing 306 the items within the batch that failed in function 305 plus items that are at the same max parts setting in batches defined by maxlookbatch; deleting 307 loads where there are not pieces from the primary batch; evaluating 308 the loads according to the maxsplit variables, and for loads that fail, deleting them and splitting them according to the maxsplit settings; determining 309 whether Maxparts setting is less than or equal to the min_parts setting, and if not, branching back to function 303, and if so continuing to function 310; determining 310 whether done optimizing all batches, and if not, moving on to next batch and starting that next batch at function 302, and if so continuing to function 311; performing 311 MaxGroup; sorting 312 items according to Batch; and completing 313 optimization.

Algorithm for Optimizing by Group Batches Together

FIG. 4 is a flowchart describing an algorithm 400 for optimizing across a specific number of batches and treating them as one (i.e., where the maxlook variable has been entered as four (4)). In some embodiments, the algorithm includes functions of starting 401 with the first batch; setting 402 the max parts to the max_parts variable; matching 403 the items up to the current max parts setting according to MaxMatch; optimizing 404 the items in the primary batch (including items that were matched according to MaxMatch) plus items in the batches according to the maxlookbatch; evaluating 405 the loads according to the maxsplit variables, and for loads that fail, deleting them and splitting them according to the maxsplit settings; determining 406 whether Maxparts setting is less than or equal to min_parts setting, and if not, branching back to function 403, and if so continuing to function 407; determining 407 whether done optimizing all batches, and if not, moving on to the next batch and starting that next batch at function 402, and if so continuing to function 408; performing 408 MaxGroup; sorting 409 items according to Batch; and completing 410 optimization.

Algorithm for Optimizing by Individual Batch Only

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm 500 for optimizing across a specific number of batches and treating them as one (i.e., where the maxlook variable has been entered as five (5)). In some embodiments, the algorithm includes functions of starting 501 with the first batch; setting 502 the max parts to the max_parts variable; matching 503 the items up to the current max parts setting according to MaxMatch; evaluating 504 the loads according to the maxsplit variables, and for loads that fail, deleting them and splitting them according to the maxsplit settings; determining 505 whether Maxparts setting is less than or equal to min_parts setting, and if not, branching back to function 503, and if so continuing to function 506; determining 506 whether done optimizing all batches, and if not, moving on to the next batch and starting that next batch at function 502, and if so continuing to function 507; performing 507 MaxGroup; sorting 508 items according to Batch (in this case this is already complete); and completing 509 optimization.

Algorithm for Optimizing by Rolling Batch

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm 600 for optimizing within each batch first at the highest maxcuts setting and then looking for parts in other defined batches, and optimizing at the highest setting across all of the batches before moving to the next lower maxcuts setting (i.e., where the maxlook variable has been entered as six (6)). In some embodiments, the algorithm includes functions of starting 601 with the first batch; setting 602 the max parts to the max_parts variable; matching 603 the items up to the current max parts setting according to MaxMatch; optimizing 604 the items within the batch (including items that were matched according to MaxMatch) plus items in the batches according to the maxlookbatch for quantities equal to the current max parts setting; deleting 605 loads where there are not pieces from the primary batch; evaluating 606 the loads according to the maxsplit variables, and for loads that fail, deleting them and splitting them according to the maxsplit settings; determining 607 whether done optimizing all batches at this max parts setting, and if not, moving on to the next batch and starting that next batch at function 602, and if so continuing to function 608; determining 608 whether Maxparts setting is less than or equal to min_parts setting, and if not, branching back to function 601, and if so continuing to function 609; performing 609 MaxGroup; sorting 610 items according to Batch; and completing 611 optimization.

In some embodiments, the method for optimizing includes: selecting a first record set of materials to optimized, sending the first record set of materials to an optimizer, selecting various optimization parameters, getting a second record set of materials for an optimizer, optimizing the first record set using the second record set, removing records that are not used in the optimization of the first record set from the second record set of materials, cutting physical materials corresponding to the first record set of optimized records, and updating the second record set based upon what was not removed from the second record set of materials. In some embodiments, the materials to be cut as described in this algorithm include window-framing materials that are to be cut to form portions of a window frame. In some embodiments, the window frame includes a sash, stile, and/or transom.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides an apparatus that includes: an input component configured to receive data relating to cutting, a selection component configured to receive input indicating a selection of one or more optimization parameters, an optimization component that indicates a grouping of materials to be cut, and a control interface that provides signals to control a cutting device. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a cutting device that includes a saw.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method for optimizing that includes grouping a maximum quantity of materials to be cut, determining a value representing a maximum number of materials that can be cut at one time (a value that, in some embodiments, is provided by the user), splitting the materials into a plurality of groups that a saw can cut, grouping similar quantities that can be cut at the same time, optimizing a highest number of cuts, and splitting some of the materials into a next additional group for cutting at a different time. In some embodiments, the actual physical cutting of the materials can occur at or after the optimization stage. In some embodiments, a database is updated at or after the second splitting stage.

A System Implementing a Batching Algorithm

In some embodiments, a saw is operatively coupled to a computer system, which controls the saw according to the output of the optimizer.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of one embodiment of an information processor 700 used in some embodiments to execute algorithm 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and/or 600. In some embodiments, the algorithms are executed by a digital processing system or computer 700 that includes a processor 710, which may represent one or more processors each having one or more cores, and may include one or more conventional types of such processors (e.g., Athlon® 64, Opteron®, Sempron®, Pentium® 4, Pentium® D, or Efficeon™), such as are available from companies such as AMD, Intel, Transmeta or the like. In some embodiments, a memory 720 is coupled to the processor 710 by a bus 701. In some embodiments, memory 720 includes dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and/or static RAM (SRAM). In some embodiments, processor 710 may also be coupled to other types of memories (e.g., cache, FLASH memory, disk, etc.), which could be considered as part of the memory 720 or separate from the memory 720.

The bus 701 further couples the processor to a display controller 730 (for driving a visual display on monitor 731), a storage controller 740 (for reading and writing data from and to mass memory (e.g., disk drive(s) 741, Universal Serial Bus (USB) interfaces 742 for connecting to a variety of external devices such as flash drive 746, tape drive 743 that accepts tape cassette 747, optical drive 744 that accepts optical media such as DVDs or CDROMs 748, and/or floppy drive that accepts diskettes 749, and/or some other type of computer-readable media device), and an input/output (I/O) controller 750 that drives part modem or network interface 754 for connecting to the internet 799, one or more keyboard 753 and mouse 752 and/or other trackball or other pointing devices, and/or printer 751 as well as scanners, digital cameras (e.g., used for machine vision processes to obtain information needed to control processes), microphones, and the like. Computer-readable media 746, 747, 748, and/or 749 may include a magnetic, optical, magneto-optical, tape, and/or other type of machine-readable media/device for storing information.

In some embodiments, the above-described saw and computer system are remotely operated via a wide-area network (WAN) or local-area network (LAN) or a collection of WANs and LANs collectively referred to as the internet 799. In some embodiments, such a remote operation may involve the use of various protocols to allow for communication between the computer system managing the saw, and other computer systems. Such protocols may include TCP/IP, UDP/IP or the like and these protocols may, in some embodiments, be organized along with other technologies according to a TCP/IP protocol stack schema or OSI model as is known in the art. (See Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach Featuring the Internet 2^(nd) Edition, James F. Kurose and Keith W. Ross, 2003.) In some embodiments, a saw and associated computer system may have an internet protocol (IP) address that allows them to receive instructions when connected to network. In some embodiments, a MAC address may be used to identify the saw and associated computer systems. In still other embodiments, another manner of identification may be used.

In some embodiments, the present invention may be implemented entirely in executable computer program instructions that are stored on computer-readable media 746, 747, 748, and/or 749 or may be implemented in a combination of software and hardware, or in certain embodiments, entirely in hardware. Embodiments within the scope of the present invention include computer-readable media for carrying or having computer-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon used to implement or control the processes described herein. Such computer-readable media may include any available medium, including storage accessed across the internet, that is accessible by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer system. When processed data is transferred or provided over a network or another communications connection (either hardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired or wireless) to a computer system, the connection is properly viewed as a computer-readable medium. Thus, any such connection is properly termed a computer-readable medium. Combinations of the above are also be included within the scope of computer-readable media. Computer-executable or computer-readable instructions include, for example, instructions and data which cause a general-purpose computer system or special-purpose computer system to perform a certain function or group of functions. The computer-executable or computer-readable instructions may be, for example, binaries, intermediate format instructions such as assembly language, or even interpreted source code.

In this description and in the following claims, a computer system is defined as one or more software modules, one or more hardware modules, or combinations thereof, that work together to perform operations on electronic data and generate outputs. For example, the definition of computer system includes the hardware modules of a personal computer, as well as software modules, such as the operating system of the personal computer. A computer system may include one or more computers coupled via a network. Likewise, a computer system may include a single physical device (such as a mobile phone or Personal Digital Assistant “PDA”) where internal modules (such as a processor and memory) work together to perform operations on electronic data.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention may be practiced in network computing environments with many types of computer-system configurations, including hubs, routers, wireless access points (WAPs), wireless stations, personal computers, laptop computers, hand-held devices, multi-processor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, mobile telephones, PDAs, pagers, and the like. The invention can also be practiced in distributed-system environments where local and remote computer systems, which are linked (either by hardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired and wireless connections) through a network, such as but not limited to the internet, both perform tasks. In a distributed-system environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory-storage devices.

A Three-Tier Architecture

In various embodiments, the present invention can be implemented in any suitable computer system or programming environment. For example, in some embodiments, the present invention can be implemented as a software application designed under a three-tier software architecture paradigm whereby various modules of computer code can be categorized as belonging to one or more of these three tiers. A three-tier software architecture is known in the art. (See Applying UML and Patterns: An Introduction to Object-Oriented Analysis and Design and the Unified Process 2nd Edition, by Craig Larman, Prentice Hall, 2002.) These three tiers, in some embodiments, may reside on one computer system, or may be distributed amongst a number of computer systems. The first tier is an Interface level that is relatively free of application processing. The second tier is a Logic level that performs processing in the form of logical/mathematical manipulations (Logical Manipulations) of data inputted, in some embodiments, through the Interface level, and communicates the results of these manipulations with the Interface and/or back-end or Storage Level. In some embodiments, these Logical Manipulations relate to certain business rules or tasks that govern the application as a whole. In some embodiments, these Logical Manipulations and associated business rules relate to cutting-stock optimization. The Storage Level is a persistent, or, in some embodiments, a non-persistent storage medium. In some embodiments, one or more of these tiers is collapsed into another resulting in a two-tier architecture, or one-tier architecture. For example, the Interface and Logic levels may be consolidated, or the Logic and Storage levels may be consolidated as in the case of an application with an embedded database. This three-tier architecture may be implemented using one technology or, as will be discussed below, a variety of technologies. These technologies may include one or more object-oriented programming languages such as, for example, Java™, C++, Fox Pro™, Delphi™, C#™ or the like. Additional structured programming languages such as, for example, C may also be used. Moreover, scripting languages such as, for example, Perl, Python, PHP, JavaScript or VBScript may also be used.

An Interface Level

In some embodiments, a graphical user interface (GUI) is used and is implemented via software such as a Java Servlet, Applet, FoxPro form or VB Script form, to name a few. In other embodiments, a command-line interface is used. These objects, and the routines governing them, allow a user to retrieve, input, or delete content, just to name a few of the functions. For example, in some embodiments, a user will be prompted with a series of text boxes into which information relating to a maximum number of cuts, minimum number of cuts, a minimum cutoff value, and a layout value may be placed. In some embodiments, this information may be provided via a radio button, scroll-down menu or some other method known in to the art. The verification of the information provided via a text box or other method may take place at the Logic level outlined below.

A Logic Level

In some embodiments, the Logic level is governed by a driver function that determines when and how certain subroutines are executed. This Logic level can be written using one of the above-mentioned object-oriented, scripting, or structured programming languages. For example, once the logic of a driver function determines that data has been entered into a text box, this data is then analyzed and certain calculations are made based upon the data, calculations including, for example, the most optimum way to group certain pieces of materials prior to cutting. In some embodiments, one or more of the above-described algorithms is implemented at this level. In some embodiments, the driver function will call certain subroutines in the form of functions that are passed arguments and which return values based upon these arguments. In some embodiments, no values are returned. In some embodiments, the subroutines and/or the driver function interact with a storage level when data is retrieved from the storage level and/or provided to the storage level to update the data contained in this storage level.

A Storage Level

In some embodiments, a storage level is implemented whereby tables of data are created, and data inserted into or selected from these tables using a Structured Query Language (SQL) or some other database-related language known in the art. (See The Fundamentals of Database Systems 3rd Edition, by Remez Elmasri & Shamkant B. Navathe, Addison-Wesley, 2000.) These tables of data can be managed using a database application such as, for example, MySQL™, SQL Server™, or Oracle 9i™ or 10g™, just to name a few. In some embodiments, a native database is employed as a part of a single application. These tables, in some embodiments, are organized into a relational-database schema (RDS) or object-relational-database schema (ORDS) as is known in the art. (See id.) In some embodiments, these schemas can be normalized using certain normalization algorithms to avoid abnormalities such as non-additive joins and other problems. In some embodiments, these normalization algorithms include Boyce-Codd Normal Form or some other normalization, optimization algorithm known in the art. (See id.) For example, in some embodiments, data relating to pieces of material (e.g., component materials) that can be used for future optimizations are stored in a database, and pieces that have been used for optimization are removed from the database table.

Example Schematics and Use Cases

FIG. 8 is a schematic 800 of a single batch optimization. In some embodiments, a single batch 811 contains numerous component materials (e.g., portions of wooden frames) of differing sizes. For example, described is a mixed set of numerous component materials 801 (e.g., longer pieces all of a first length), 802 (e.g., shorter pieces all of a second length) and 803 (e.g., middle-length pieces all of a third length). In some embodiments, this single batch of component materials is optimized such that it becomes an optimized batch 812 wherein pieces of each length are sorted.

FIG. 9 is a schematic 900 showing various component pieces that make up the optimized batch 812 (e.g., sorted-by-length pieces having reference numbers 801, 802, and 803). In some embodiments, these component materials are split up through a split in batch operation wherein component materials of similar size (e.g., the set containing component materials 801) are split into a separate split-in-batch set 901. In some embodiments, a computer system 920 is used to control and implement the above-described algorithm for optimizing an individual batch down to minimum cuts. In some embodiments, this computer 920 controls a saw 930 wherein the saw 930 is provided the split in batch set 901, the saw 930 then cutting the component materials 801 into separate-length pieces 904 (the longer pieces) and 905 (the shorter pieces). In some embodiments, the computer 920 actually implements the algorithm for optimizing an individual batch down to minimum cuts, whereas in other embodiments this algorithm is implemented by a separate computer.

FIG. 10 is a schematic 1000 of an implementation of an algorithm for optimizing across multiple batches. In this example, optimization occurs across a first batch 1011 (which is initially considered to be the “primary” batch), a second batch 1012 (which is initially considered to be the “look-ahead or secondary” batch), and further future third batch 1013, and fourth batch 1014. Common to the first batch 1011 and fourth batch 1014 are various materials components 1001 each of an equal specified length. Once all parts of the primary batch 1011 have been cut, batch 1012 becomes the primary batch, and when this happens, one or more additional look-ahead batches may be added to those considered in the present optimization process. At the start of a workday or work shift, the last batch of the prior day or shift is set as the initial primary batch to start this workday or work shift. In some embodiments, the primary batch will, by definition, have no pieces from a prior batch, but may consider pieces from forward (future) batches in its optimization algorithm

FIG. 11 is a schematic 1100 of an implementation of combining of first batch 1011 and fourth batch 1014 and the materials component 1001 contained therein. These two batches (i.e., batch 1011 and batch 1014) are combined into a to-be-optimized combined batch 1101 containing the material components 1001 of batch 1011 and batch 1014. In some embodiments, this optimized batch 1101 is provided to a saw 1130 controlled by a computer 1120. The saw 1130, in some embodiments, then cuts the materials components 1001 into pieces 1104 (of a first length and/or angle of end-cut), 1105 (of a second length and/or angle of end-cut), and 1106 (of a third length and/or angle of end-cut). In some embodiments, the saw-control computer 1120 actually implements the algorithm for optimizing an individual batch down to minimum cuts, whereas in other embodiments this algorithm is implemented by a separate computer.

FIG. 12 is a schematic 1200 of an implementation of an algorithm for optimizing an individual batch on a rolling basis. Shown in FIG. 12 are a first batch 1211 and a second batch 1212. Batch 1211 contains materials components 1201 and 1202, while batch 1212 contains materials components 1203 in addition to material components 1202 and 1201. In some embodiments, an optimized batch 1213 is defined wherein the materials components 1201 from batch 1211 and batch 1212 are combined and/or sorted into batch 1213, as are materials components 1202 from batch 1211 and batch 1212. The materials components 1201 are then used to create a split in batch 1301 (see FIG. 13) that contains just the materials components 1201. Similarly, though not pictured, materials components 1202 are also used to create another split in batch. The materials components 1203 in batch 1212 are not used to create a split in batch 1301 (see FIG. 13 description below), but rather are used for subsequent batches on a rolling basis. More to the point, a rolling basis denotes that material components within a batch may be combined with materials components of a similar size in the next subsequent batch. Any remaining materials components that are not combined are combined with the next subsequent batch, and so on.

FIG. 13 is a schematic 1300 of an implementation of the processing of a split in batch 1301. In some embodiments, a split in batch 1301 composed of, for example, materials components 1201 are provided to a saw 1330 controlled by a computer 1320. In some embodiments, the saw 1330 cuts the materials components 1201 into pieces 1304, 1305 and 1306. In some embodiments, the computer 1320 actually implements the algorithm for optimizing an individual batch on a rolling basis, whereas in other embodiments this algorithm is implemented by a separate computer.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a computerized method that includes eliciting and receiving a specification of a number of batches that may be included in a look-ahead process, a specification of a maximum number of parts per batch, a specification of a maximum number of splits, and a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; inputting a plurality of orders for cut-part items; matching cut parts up to the specified maximum number of items per batch setting; optimizing the items across a schedule for quantities equal to the specified maximum number of items setting; evaluating loads according to the specified maximum number of splits and for loads that fail, and deleting them and splitting the quantities; changing the specified maximum number of items setting to a next lowest setting; determining whether the specified maximum number of items setting is less than one and if not, branching back to the matching function and if so continuing; performing a maxgroup function; and sorting item specifications according to batch such that the optimization is complete. As used herein, a “type of optimization” is another way of describing a constraint (of one or more parameters) that the optimization process will try to best satisfy.

Some embodiments of the method further include cutting linear (one-dimensional) stock into cut items according to the batch-sorted item specifications. Some embodiments further include assembling at least part of a window from the cut items. Some embodiments further include assembling at least part of a door from the cut items.

Some embodiments of the method further include cutting sheet (two-dimensional) stock into cut items according to the batch-sorted item specifications. Some embodiments further include assembling at least part of a window from the cut items. Some embodiments further include assembling at least part of a door from the cut items.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a computerized method that includes setting the maximum number of parts (max parts) to the max_parts variable; matching the items up to the current max parts setting according to MaxMatch; optimizing the items across the schedule for quantities equal to the current max parts setting; evaluating the loads according to the maxsplit variables and for loads that fail, deleting them and splitting the quantities; changing the max parts setting to the next lowest setting; determining whether maxparts setting is less than one and if not, branching back to the matching function and if so continuing; performing the maxgroup function; and sorting items according to batch such that the optimization is complete.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a computerized apparatus that includes means for setting the maximum number of parts (max parts) to the max_parts variable; means for matching the items up to the current max parts setting according to MaxMatch; means for optimizing the items across the schedule for quantities equal to the current max parts setting; means for evaluating the loads according to the maxsplit variables and for loads that fail, deleting them and splitting the quantities; means for changing the max parts setting to the next lowest setting; means for determining whether maxparts setting is less than one and if not, branching back to the matching function and if so continuing; means for performing the maxgroup function; and means for sorting items according to batch.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a computerized apparatus that includes means for eliciting and receiving a specification of a number of batches that may be included in a look-ahead process, a specification of a maximum number of parts per batch, a specification of a maximum number of splits, and a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization constraints; means for inputting a plurality of orders for cut-part items; means for matching cut parts up to the specified maximum number of items per batch setting; means for optimizing the items across a schedule for quantities equal to the specified maximum number of items setting; means for evaluating loads according to the specified maximum number of splits and for loads that fail, and deleting them and splitting the quantities; means for changing the specified maximum number of items setting to a next lowest setting; means for determining whether the specified maximum number of items setting is less than one and if not, branching back to the matching function and if so continuing; means for performing a maxgroup function; and means for sorting item specifications according to batch such that the optimization is complete.

Some embodiments of the apparatus further include means for cutting linear (one-dimensional) stock into cut items according to the batch-sorted item specifications. Some embodiments further include means for assembling at least part of a window from the cut items. Some embodiments further include means for assembling at least part of a door from the cut items.

Some embodiments of the apparatus further include means for cutting sheet (two-dimensional) stock into cut items according to the batch-sorted item specifications. Some embodiments further include means for assembling at least part of a window from the cut items. Some embodiments further include means for assembling at least part of a door from the cut items.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a computerized apparatus that includes a receiver unit that receives the maximum number of parts (max parts) to set the max_parts variable; matcher unit that matches the items up to the current max parts selling according to MaxMatch; an optimizer unit that optimizes the items across the schedule for quantities equal to the current max parts setting; an evaluator unit that evaluates the loads according to the maxsplit variables and for loads that fail, deletes them and splits the quantities; a changer unit that changes the max parts setting to the next lowest setting; a determiner unit that determines whether maxparts setting is less than one and if not, branches back to the matching function and if so continuing; a maxgroup unit that performs a maxgroup function; and a sorter that sorts items according to batch.

Some embodiments further include a cutter configured to cut linear (one-dimensional) stock into cut items according to the batch-sorted item specifications. Some embodiments further include an assembly mechanism that assembles at least part of a window from the cut items. Some embodiments further include an assembly mechanism that assembles at least part of a door from the cut items.

Some embodiments further include a cutting machine configured to cut sheet (two-dimensional) stock into cut items according to the batch-sorted item specifications. Some embodiments further include an assembly mechanism that assembles at least part of a window from the cut items. Some embodiments further include an assembly mechanism that assembles at least part of a door from the cut items.

FIG. 14 is a schematic 1400 of an implementation of the invention. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a computerized method 1400 that includes storing 1410 in a computer: a specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, an initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting, a set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched, and a at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization. This method also includes receiving 1412 into the computer a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for one or more cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material; specifying 1414 a plurality of batches, and associating at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; determining matches 1416, in the computer, wherein the determining matches includes determining for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result forming groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together from a load of pieces of stock material, wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process; optimizing 1418, in the computer, based at least in part on the specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization (at least one of labor, raw material, scrap-or-yield, number-of-saw-cycles and space constraints), placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number of items setting; and outputting 1420 a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the subsequent batches.

FIG. 15 is a schematic 1500 of another implementation of the invention. In some embodiments, Blocks 1410, 1412, 1414, 1416, 1418, and 1420 are as described above for FIG. 14. In some embodiments of this method, the storing 1410 into the computer further includes storing an initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting, and the method further includes, after the optimizing, performing 1522: if the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting is greater than its minimum permitted value, then changing the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting to a next lower setting and branching back to the determining of matches function.

Some embodiments of this method further include performing 1524: removing, from the respective subsequent batches, the one or more cut-part items of the subsequent batches that were included in the primary batch cutting specification; resetting the initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting; and redesignating the first subsequent batch to be the primary batch and iterating the method for the first subsequent batch being the primary batch, wherein the determining matches includes cut-part items from an additional one of the plurality of subsequent batches.

Some embodiments of this method further include cutting linear (“one-dimensional”) stock into cut items according to the primary-batch cutting specification.

Some embodiments of this method further include assembling at least part of a window from the cut items.

Some embodiments of this method further include cutting sheet (two-dimensional) stock into cut items according to the primary-batch cutting specification.

Some embodiments of this method further include assembling at least part of a window from the cut items.

FIG. 16 is a schematic 1600 of yet another implementation of the invention. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method that includes receiving 1610 into a computer a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for one or more cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material; specifying 1620 a plurality of batches, and associating at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; performing 1630 a rolling look-ahead process, including optimizing, in the computer, placement of the cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of one or more pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches; and outputting 1640 a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the one or more subsequent batches.

Some embodiments further include specifying 1650 into the computer a specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, a set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched, and a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; wherein the rolling look-ahead process further includes determining matches, in the computer, wherein the determining matches includes determining for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result forming groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together from a load of pieces of stock material, wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process; and wherein the optimizing includes optimizing, in the computer, based at least in part on the specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number of items setting.

In some embodiments, the specifying into a computer further includes specifying an initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting, and the method further includes after the optimizing, if the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting is greater than its minimum permitted value, then changing the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting to a next lower setting and branching back to the determining of matches function.

Some embodiments further include removing, from the respective subsequent batches, the one or more cut-part items of the subsequent batches that were included in the primary batch cutting specification; resetting the initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting; and redesignating the first subsequent batch to be the primary batch and iterating the method for the first subsequent batch being the primary batch, wherein the determining matches includes cut-part items from an additional one of the plurality of subsequent batches.

In other embodiments, the present invention provides an apparatus that includes a computer having stored therein a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for one or more cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material, wherein the computer includes a specified plurality of batches, and an association of at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; means for performing a rolling look-ahead process, including means for optimizing placement of cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches relative to a plurality of loads of one or more pieces of stock material; and an output device, operatively coupled to the means for performing the rolling look-ahead process, that outputs a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the one or more subsequent batches.

In some embodiments of the apparatus, the computer has a stored specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, a specified set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched; and a stored specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; and wherein the means for performing the rolling look-ahead process further includes: means for determining matches, in the computer, wherein the determining of matches includes determining for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result forming groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together from a load of pieces of stock material, wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process; and wherein the means for optimizing includes means for optimizing, in the computer, based at least in part on the specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimization includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number of items setting.

In some embodiments of the apparatus, the computer includes a specification of an initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group selling, and the apparatus further includes means, if the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting is greater than its minimum permitted value, for changing the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group selling to a next lower selling and branching back to the determining of matches function.

Some embodiments of the apparatus further include means for removing, from the respective subsequent batches, the one or more cut-part items of the subsequent batches that were included in the primary batch cutting specification; means for reselling the initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting; and means for re-designating the first subsequent batch to be the primary batch and iterating for the first subsequent batch being the primary batch, wherein the means for determining matches includes cut-part items from an additional one of the plurality of subsequent batches.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon for causing a suitably programmed computer to perform a method that includes receiving into the computer a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for one or more cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material; specifying a plurality of batches, and associating at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; performing a rolling look-ahead process, including optimizing placement of the cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of one or more pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches; and outputting a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the one or more subsequent batches.

In some embodiments, the computer-readable medium further includes instructions stored thereon to cause the method to further include storing in the computer: a specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, a set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched, and a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; and instructions such that the rolling look-ahead process further includes: determining matches, in the computer, wherein the determining matches includes determining for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result forming groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together from a load of pieces of stock material, wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process; and instructions such that the optimizing includes optimizing, in the computer, based at least in part on the specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number of items setting.

In some embodiments, the computer-readable medium further includes instructions stored thereon to cause the method to further include storing an initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting, and after the optimizing, if the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting is greater than its minimum permitted value, then changing the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting to a next lower setting and branching back to the determining of matches function.

In some embodiments, the computer-readable medium further includes instructions stored thereon to cause the method to further include removing, from the respective subsequent batches, the one or more cut-part items of the subsequent batches that were included in the primary batch cutting specification; resetting the initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting; and re-designating the first subsequent batch to be the primary batch and iterating the method for the first subsequent batch being the primary batch, wherein the determining matches includes cut-part items from an additional one of the plurality of subsequent batches.

In some embodiments, the computer-readable medium further includes instructions stored thereon to cause the method to further include controlling a cutting machine to cut stock materials according to the primary-batch cutting specification.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a computerized method that includes specifying into a computer: {a specification of a number of batches to be included in a look-ahead process, an initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting, a set (“set”) of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched, a specification of a maximum number of cut-part items per batch (“max_parts”), a specification of a maximum number of splits, and a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; receiving into a computer a plurality of orders (“orders”), wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for one or more cut-part items (“parts”) to be cut from pieces of stock material (“one or more SKUs”)}; specifying a plurality of batches (“batches”), and associating at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; determining, in the computer, for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result forming groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together (“in one cycle”) from a load of pieces of stock material; optimizing, in the computer, based at least in part on a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number of items setting; evaluating a plurality of the loads according to user-set parameters for splitting loads, and for loads that fail this evaluation, deleting the failed loads and splitting the groups placed in those loads into smaller quantities for a further optimization, and removing the parts in the loads that meet the evaluation from those that are still to be matched and optimized; if the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting is greater than its minimum permitted value, then changing the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting to a next lower setting and branching back to the matching function; outputting a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items of the subsequent batches; removing, from the respective subsequent batches, the one or more cut-part items of the subsequent batches that were included in the primary batch cutting specification; performing a maxgroup function; and sorting item specifications according to batch such that the optimization is complete.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a computerized method that includes specifying into a computer: {a specification of a number of batches that may be included in a look-ahead process, a specified maximum number of items setting, a specification of a maximum number of cut-part items per batch (“max_parts”), a specification of a maximum number of splits, and a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization}; receiving into the computer a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies one or more cut-part items; matching, in the computer, the specifications for cut-part items to determine groups/sets of identical cut-part items, relative to available raw material in a plurality of batches of cutting operations that cut the raw material into cut-part items, up to a specified maximum number of cut-part items per batch, wherein the plurality of batches include a primary batch that will be cut soonest and a plurality of later batches; optimizing, in the computer, based on a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization, placement of the specifications for cut-part items into the batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number of items setting; evaluating loads according to the specified maximum number of splits and for loads that fail, and deleting them and splitting the quantities; changing the specified maximum number of items setting to a next lowest setting; determining whether the specified maximum number of items setting is less than one and if not, branching back to the matching function and if so continuing; performing a maxgroup function; and sorting item specifications according to batch such that the optimization is complete.

In some embodiments, when looking for identical parts in other batches, and if and how to match them up, the following settings indicate how the matching will be performed: (1) Only match within a batch, (2) Match across the entire schedule, (3) Match across up to a specific number of batches (indicated in MaxMatchBatch), or (4) Do not Match.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a computerized method that includes specifying into a computer: a specification of a number of batches that may be included in a look-ahead process, a specification of a maximum number of parts per batch, a specification of a maximum number of splits, and a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; receiving into the computer a plurality of orders for cut-part items; matching cut-part items, in the computer, up to the specified maximum number of raw materials that can be cut in a cycle (items per batch setting); optimizing the placement of items into batches across a schedule for quantities up to the specified maximum number of items setting; evaluating loads according to parameters that the user set for splitting and for loads that fail that evaluation, deleting them and splitting those loads into smaller quantities for a further optimization, and removing the parts in the loads that meet the evaluation from those that are yet to be matched and optimized; changing the specified maximum number of items setting to a next lowest setting; determining whether the specified maximum number of raw-material items per cycle setting is less than the minimum-parts setting and if not, branching back to the matching function and if so continuing; performing a maxgroup function according to a specification of: (a) Group up to the max_cuts setting, (b) Group up to a specific setting as indicated by a groupparts setting, or (c) Do not group; and sorting item specifications according to batch such that the optimization is complete.

Some embodiments further include cutting linear (“one-dimensional”) stock into cut items according to the batch-sorted item specifications. In some such embodiments, the method further includes assembling at least part of a window from the cut items. In some such embodiments, the method further includes assembling at least part of a door from the cut items.

Some embodiments further include cutting sheet (two-dimensional) stock into cut items according to the batch-sorted item specifications. In some such embodiments, the method further includes assembling at least part of a window from the cut items. In some such embodiments, the method further includes assembling at least part of a door from the cut items.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a computerized method that includes setting a max_parts variable to a specified a maximum number of parts; matching a plurality of cut-part items up to the max_parts setting; optimizing the items across the schedule for quantities equal to the current max parts setting; evaluating the loads according to the maxsplit variables and for loads that fail, deleting them and splitting the quantities; changing the max parts setting to the next lowest setting; determining whether max_parts setting is less than one and if not, branching back to the matching function and if so continuing; performing the maxgroup function; and sorting items according to batch such that the optimization is complete.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides an apparatus that includes means for setting the maximum number of parts (max parts) to the max_parts variable; means for matching the items up to the current max parts setting according to MaxMatch; means for optimizing the items across the schedule for quantities equal to the current max parts setting; means for evaluating the loads according to the maxsplit variables and for loads that fail, deleting them and splitting the quantities; means for changing the max parts setting to the next lowest setting; means for determining whether maxparts setting is less than one and if not, branching back to the matching function and if so continuing; means for performing the maxgroup function; and means for sorting items according to batch.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides an apparatus that includes means for eliciting and receiving a specification of a number of batches that may be included in a look-ahead process, a specification of a maximum number of parts per batch, a specification of a maximum number of splits, and a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; means for inputting a plurality of orders for cut-part items; means for matching cut parts up to the specified maximum number of items per batch setting; means for optimizing the items across a schedule for quantities equal to the specified maximum number of items setting; means for evaluating loads according to the specified maximum number of splits and for loads that fail, and deleting them and splitting the quantities; means for changing the specified maximum number of items setting to a next lowest setting; means for determining whether the specified maximum number of items setting is less than one and if not, branching back to the matching function and if so continuing; means for performing a maxgroup function; and means for sorting item specifications according to batch such that the optimization is complete.

Some embodiments further include means for cutting linear (one-dimensional) stock into cut items according to the batch-sorted item specifications. In some such embodiments, the apparatus further includes means for assembling at least part of a window from the cut items. In some such embodiments, the apparatus further includes means for assembling at least part of a door from the cut items.

Some embodiments further include means for cutting sheet (two-dimensional) stock into cut items according to the batch-sorted item specifications. In some such embodiments, the apparatus further includes means for assembling at least part of a window from the cut items. In some such embodiments, the apparatus further includes means for assembling at least part of a door from the cut items.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides an apparatus that includes a receiver unit that receives the maximum number of parts (max parts) to set the max_parts variable; a matcher unit that matches the items up to the current max parts setting according to MaxMatch; an optimizer unit that optimizes the items across the schedule for quantities equal to the current max parts setting; an evaluator unit that evaluates the loads according to the maxsplit variables and for loads that fail, deletes them and splits the quantities; a changer unit that changes the max parts setting to the next lowest setting; a determiner unit that determines whether maxparts setting is less than one and if not, branches back to the matching function and if so continuing; a maxgroup unit that performs a maxgroup function; and a sorter that sorts items according to batch.

Some embodiments further include a cutter configured to cut linear (one-dimensional) stock into cut items according to the batch-sorted item specifications. Some such embodiments further include an assembly mechanism that assembles at least part of a window from the cut items. Some such embodiments further include an assembly mechanism that assembles at least part of a door from the cut items.

Some embodiments further include a cutter configured to cut sheet (two-dimensional) stock into cut items according to the batch-sorted item specifications. Some such embodiments further include an assembly mechanism that assembles at least part of a window from the cut items. Some such embodiments further include an assembly mechanism that assembles at least part of a door from the cut items.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides an apparatus that includes a computer having stored therein a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for one or more cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material, wherein the computer includes a specified plurality of batches, and an association of at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; an optimizer that performs a rolling look-ahead process, including optimized placement of cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches relative to a plurality of loads of one or more pieces of stock material; and an output device, operatively coupled to the optimizer, that outputs a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the one or more subsequent batches.

In some embodiments of this apparatus, the computer includes a stored specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, a specified set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched; and a stored specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; wherein optimizer further includes a matcher to determine matches, in the computer, wherein the determining of matches includes determining for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result forming groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together from a load of pieces of stock material, wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process; and wherein the optimizer operates based at least in part on the specification of at least one type of optimization, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimization includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number of items setting.

In some embodiments of this apparatus, the computer includes a specification of an initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting, and wherein the apparatus further comprises:

a changer that, if the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting is greater than its minimum permitted value, changes the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting to a next lower setting and branches back to the matcher.

Some embodiments of this apparatus further include a remover that removes, from the respective subsequent batches, the one or more cut-part items of the subsequent batches that were included in the primary batch cutting specification; a resetter that resets the initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting; and a redesignator that redesignates the first subsequent batch to be the primary batch and iterates for the first subsequent batch being the primary batch, wherein the matcher includes cut-part items from an additional one of the plurality of subsequent batches.

It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Although numerous characteristics and advantages of various embodiments as described herein have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and function of various embodiments, many other embodiments and changes to details will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein,” respectively. Moreover, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. 

1. A computerized method comprising: storing in a computer: a specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, an initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting, a set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched, and a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; receiving into the computer a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for one or more cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material; specifying a plurality of batches, and associating at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; determining matches, in the computer, wherein the determining matches includes determining, for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result forming groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together in one cycle from a load of pieces of stock material grouped together and aligned such that a single saw cycle cuts cut-part items from all of the pieces, wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process; optimizing, in the computer, based at least in part on the specification of the at least one optimization type, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations; and outputting a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the subsequent batches.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising cutting linear (“one-dimensional”) stock into cut items according to the primary-batch cutting specification.
 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising assembling at least part of a window from the cut items.
 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising cutting sheet (two-dimensional) stock into cut items according to the primary-batch cutting specification.
 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising assembling at least part of a door from the cut items.
 6. A computerized method comprising: storing in a computer: a specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, an initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting, a set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched, and a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; receiving into the computer a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for one or more cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material; specifying a plurality of batches, and associating at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; determining matches, in the computer, wherein the determining matches includes determining, for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result forming groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together from a load of pieces of stock material, wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process; optimizing, in the computer, based at least in part on the specification of the at least one optimization type, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum-number-of-items-per group setting; and outputting a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the subsequent batches, after the optimizing, if the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting is greater than its minimum permitted value, then changing the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting to a next lower setting and branching back to the determining of matches function.
 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising: removing, from the respective subsequent batches, the one or more cut-part items of the subsequent batches that were included in the primary batch cutting specification; resetting the initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting; and redesignating the first subsequent batch to be the primary batch and iterating the method for the first subsequent batch being the primary batch, wherein the determining matches includes cut-part items from an additional one of the plurality of subsequent batches.
 8. A computerized method comprising: receiving into a computer a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for a plurality of cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material; specifying a plurality of batches, and associating at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; specifying into the computer a specification of a set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched; performing a rolling look-ahead process, including optimizing, in the computer, placement of the cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of one or more pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes all of the cut-part items currently in the primary batch and all of the cut-part items currently in one or more of the subsequent batches, wherein the look-ahead process further includes determining matches, in the computer, wherein the determining matches includes determining, for each of the plurality of cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result forming groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together in one cycle from a load having a plurality of pieces of stock material grouped together and aligned such that a single saw cycle cuts cut-part items from all of the plurality of pieces of the load, and wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process; and outputting a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the one or more subsequent batches.
 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising: specifying into the computer: a specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; wherein the optimizing includes optimizing, in the computer, based at least in part on the specification of the at least one type of optimization, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number of items per group setting.
 10. The method of claim 8, further comprising: evaluating the loads according to a split specification of at least one of overall yield, scrap length, and total scrap where total scrap equals number of pieces being cut in one cycle multiplied by the leftover scrap lengths, and for loads that fail the evaluation, deleting those loads and splitting the parts from those loads to a lower quantities value for further optimization.
 11. A computerized method comprising: specifying into the computer: a specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, a set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched, and a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; receiving into a computer a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for one or more cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material; specifying a plurality of batches, and associating at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; performing a rolling look-ahead process, including: optimizing, in the computer, placement of the cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of one or more pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes all of the cut-part items currently in the primary batch and all of the cut-part items currently in one or more of the subsequent batches, optimizing, in the computer, based at least in part on the specification of the at least one type of optimization, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number-of-items-per-group setting, and determining matches, in the computer, wherein the determining matches includes determining, for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result forming groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together from a load of pieces of stock material, wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process; outputting a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the one or more subsequent batches; and after the optimizing, if the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting is greater than its minimum permitted value, then changing the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting to a next lower setting and branching back to the determining of matches function.
 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: removing, from the respective subsequent batches, the one or more cut-part items of the subsequent batches that were included in the primary batch cutting specification; resetting the initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting; and redesignating the first subsequent batch to be the primary batch and iterating the method for the first subsequent batch being the primary batch, wherein the determining matches includes cut-part items from an additional one of the plurality of subsequent batches.
 13. A computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon for causing a suitably programmed computer to perform a method comprising: receiving into the computer a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for a plurality of cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material; specifying a plurality of batches, and associating at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; storing in the computer a set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched; performing a rolling look-ahead process, including optimizing placement of the cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of one or more pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes all of the cut-part items currently in the primary batch and all of the cut-part items currently in one or more of the subsequent batches, wherein the look-ahead process further includes determining matches, in the computer, wherein the determining matches includes determining, for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result forming groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together in one cycle from a load of pieces of stock material grouped together and aligned such that a single saw cycle cuts cut-part items from all of the pieces, and wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process; and outputting a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the one or more subsequent batches.
 14. The computer-readable medium of claim 13, further comprising instructions stored thereon to cause the method to further comprise: storing in the computer: a specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, and a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; wherein the optimizing includes optimizing, in the computer, based at least in part on the specification of the at least one of type of optimization, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number of items setting.
 15. The computer-readable medium of claim 13, further comprising instructions stored thereon to cause the method to further comprise controlling a cutting machine to cut stock materials according to the primary-batch cutting specification.
 16. A computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon for causing a suitably programmed computer to perform a method comprising: storing in the computer: an initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting, a specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, a set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched, and a specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; receiving into the computer a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for one or more cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material; specifying a plurality of batches, and associating at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; performing a rolling look-ahead process, including determining matches, in the computer, wherein the determining matches includes determining, for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result forming groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together from a load of pieces of stock material, wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process, and optimizing placement of the cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of one or more pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches, wherein the optimizing includes optimizing, in the computer, based at least in part on the specification of the at least one of type of optimization, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimizing includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number of items setting; after the optimizing, if the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting is greater than its minimum permitted value, then changing the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting to a next lower setting and branching back to the determining of matches function; and outputting a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the one or more subsequent batches.
 17. The computer-readable medium of claim 16, further comprising instructions stored thereon to cause the method to further comprise: removing, from the respective subsequent batches, the one or more cut-part items of the subsequent batches that were included in the primary batch cutting specification; resetting the initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting; and redesignating the first subsequent batch to be the primary batch and iterating the method for the first subsequent batch being the primary batch, wherein the determining matches includes cut-part items from an additional one of the plurality of subsequent batches.
 18. The computer-readable medium of claim 16, further comprising instructions stored thereon to cause the method to further comprise controlling a cutting machine to cut stock materials according to the primary-batch cutting specification.
 19. An apparatus comprising: a computer having stored therein a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for one or more cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material, wherein the computer includes a specified plurality of batches, a specified set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched, and an association of at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; means for performing a rolling look-ahead process, including means for optimizing placement of all of the cut-part items currently in the primary batch and all of the cut-part items currently in one or more of the subsequent batches relative to a plurality of loads of one or more pieces of stock material, wherein means for performing the rolling look-ahead process further includes means for determining matches, in the computer, wherein the means for determining of matches includes means for determining, for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result forming groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together in one cycle from a load of pieces of stock material grouped together and aligned such that a single saw cycle cuts cut-part items from all of the pieces, wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process; and an output device, operatively coupled to the means for performing the rolling look-ahead process, that outputs a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the one or more subsequent batches.
 20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the computer includes a stored specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, and a stored specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; wherein the means for optimizing includes means for optimizing, in the computer, based at least in part on the specification of at least one type of optimization, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimization includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number of items setting.
 21. The apparatus of claim 19, further comprising a cutter configured to cut linear stock into cut items according to the primary batch cutting specification.
 22. The apparatus of claim 21, further comprising an assembly mechanism that assembles at least part of a window from the cut items.
 23. The apparatus of claim 21, further comprising an assembly mechanism that assembles at least part of a door from the cut items.
 24. An apparatus comprising: a computer having stored therein a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for one or more cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material, wherein the computer includes a specified plurality of batches, and an association of at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; means for performing a rolling look-ahead process, including means for optimizing placement of cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches relative to a plurality of loads of one or more pieces of stock material; an output device, operatively coupled to the means for performing the rolling look-ahead process, that outputs a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the one or more subsequent batches; wherein the computer includes a specification of an initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting, a stored specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, a specified set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched; and a stored specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; wherein the means for performing the rolling look-ahead process further includes means for determining matches, in the computer, wherein the means for determining of matches includes means for determining, for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result the means for determining of matches forms groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together from a load of pieces of stock material, wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process; and wherein the means for optimizing includes means for optimizing, in the computer, based at least in part on the specification of at least one type of optimization, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimization includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number of items setting; and means for, if the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting is greater than its minimum permitted value, changing the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting to a next lower setting and branching back to the means for determining matches.
 25. The apparatus of claim 24, further comprising: means for removing, from the respective subsequent batches, the one or more cut-part items of the subsequent batches that were included in the primary batch cutting specification; means for resetting the initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting; and means for redesignating the first subsequent batch to be the primary batch and iterating for the first subsequent batch being the primary batch, wherein the means for determining matches includes cut-part items from an additional one of the plurality of subsequent batches.
 26. An apparatus comprising: a computer having stored therein a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for one or more cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material, wherein the computer includes a specified plurality of batches, a specified set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched, and an association of at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; an optimizer that performs a rolling look-ahead process, including optimized placement of all of the cut-part items currently in the primary batch and all of the cut-part items currently in one or more of the subsequent batches relative to a plurality of loads of one or more pieces of stock material, wherein optimizer further includes a matcher to determine matches, in the computer, wherein the matcher determines, for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result the matcher forms groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together in one cycle from a load of pieces of stock material grouped together and aligned such that a single saw cycle cuts cut-part items from all of the pieces, wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process; and an output device, operatively coupled to the optimizer, that outputs a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the one or more subsequent batches.
 27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the computer includes a stored specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, and a stored specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; wherein the optimizer operates based at least in part on the specification of at least one type of optimization, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimization includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number of items setting.
 28. An apparatus comprising: a computer having stored therein a plurality of orders, wherein each one of the plurality of orders specifies characteristics for one or more cut-part items to be cut from pieces of stock material, wherein the computer includes a specified plurality of batches, and an association of at least one of the plurality of orders into each one of the plurality of batches, wherein the plurality of batches include an initial primary batch and one or more subsequent batches including a first subsequent batch; an optimizer that performs a rolling look-ahead process, including optimized placement of cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches relative to a plurality of loads of one or more pieces of stock material; an output device, operatively coupled to the optimizer, that outputs a primary-batch cutting specification for a plurality of cuts to be performed on each of a plurality of loads to obtain the plurality of cut-part items of the primary batch plus one or more cut-part items selected from the one or more subsequent batches; wherein the computer includes a stored specification of a number of subsequent batches to be included in a look-ahead process, a specified set of which characteristics are to be matched, wherein the set includes at least a length to be matched; and a stored specification of at least one type of optimization including type labor optimization, raw material optimization, scrap-or-yield optimization, number-of-saw-cycles optimization, and space optimization; wherein optimizer further includes a matcher to determine matches, in the computer, wherein the matcher determines, for each of a plurality of the cut-part items, whether others of the plurality of cut-part items have matching specified characteristics within the set of which characteristics are to be matched, and as a result the matcher forms groups of matched cut-part items, wherein each group defines cut-part items that would be cut together from a load of pieces of stock material, wherein the plurality of cut-part items are selected from the primary batch and the specified number of subsequent batches for the look-ahead process; and wherein the optimizer operates based at least in part on the specification of at least one type of optimization, placement of the groups of matched cut-part items relative to a plurality of loads of pieces of stock material, wherein the optimization includes those cut-part items in the primary batch and in one or more of the subsequent batches across a given schedule for performing the cutting operations for quantities up to a specified maximum number of items setting; wherein the computer includes a specification of an initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting, and wherein the apparatus further comprises: a changer that, if the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting is greater than its minimum permitted value, changes the specified maximum-number-of-items-per-group setting to a next lower setting and branches back to the matcher.
 29. The apparatus of claim 28, further comprising: a remover that removes, from the respective subsequent batches, the one or more cut-part items of the subsequent batches that were included in the primary batch cutting specification; a resetter that resets the initial specified maximum-number-of-items-in-a-group setting; and a redesignator that redesignates the first subsequent batch to be the primary batch and iterates for the first subsequent batch being the primary batch, wherein the matcher includes cut-part items from an additional one of the plurality of subsequent batches. 